its
readiness to comply with the wish expressed will be regarded in
France as a proof of Her Majesty's desire to efface every trace
of those national animosities which, during the life of the
Emperor, engaged the two nations in war. Her Majesty's
Government feels pleasure in believing that such sentiments, if
they still exist, will be buried for ever in the tomb destined
to receive the mortal remains of Napoleon. Her Majesty's
Government, in concert with that of France, will arrange the
measures necessary for effecting the removal.

--(Signed) PALMERSTON."

One of the chief features of this State document is its veiled
condition that in consideration of H.B.M. Government giving up the
remains of Napoleon, it is to be understood that every _trace_ of
national animosity is to be effaced. Another is, now that his mortal
remains are in question, he is styled "the Emperor Napoleon."
Twenty-five years before, when the atrocious crime of captivity was
planned, Lord Keith, in the name of the British Government, addressed
a communication to "General Bonaparte." The title of Emperor which his
countrymen had given to him was, until his death, officially ignored,
and he was only allowed to be styled "General" Bonaparte--the rank
which the British Government in that hour of his misfortune thought
best suited to their illustrious captive. He was, in fact, so far as
rank was concerned, to be put on a level with some and beneath others
who followed him into captivity. Well might he "protest in the face of
Heaven and mankind against the violence that was being enacted"
towards him. Well might he appeal to history to avenge him. There is
nothing in history to equal the malignancy of the conquerors'
treatment of their fallen foe. We shall see now and hereafter
prejudices making way, reluctantly it may be, but surely, for the
justice that should be done him.

Three days after the gracious reply of the British Government, May 20,
1840, the French King signified his desire to carry out the wishes of
the Chambers by putting the following document before them:--

"GENTLEMEN,--The King has commanded Prince Joinville [his son]
to repair with his frigate to the island of St. Helena, there to
receive the mortal remains of the Emperor Napoleon. The frigate
containing the remains of Napoleon will present itself, on its
return, at the mouth of the Seine; another vessel will convey